Vladimir Putin showcased an awkward gait upon his arrival for a summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing today, as per critics. The Russian leader’s right leg appeared stiff or pained as he confidently stepped in his elevated shoes onto the red carpet to meet the Chinese president. Reports suggest Putin opted for these shoes to match Xi’s height, who stands around 5ft11, while Putin is 5ft7.
Immediately following the official welcome at the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square, Ukrainian sources ridiculed Putin based on the footage. One Ukrainian channel remarked, “The orc can barely walk.” Another observer described Putin’s movement as a shuffle with an uncomfortable stoop as he greeted Xi in Beijing. Speculation arose when a commenter questioned if Putin was using an exoskeleton.
Putin has been frequently captured wearing shoes with notably higher heels, potentially adding up to 3 inches to his stature.
